Vatican Says Pope to Have No Role in Selection of Successor, Reveals Pontiff’s Pacemaker

More details are emerging on Pope Benedict XVI, including a new piece of health-related information which may have contributed to his sudden resignation.

Speaking to Bill Hemmer and Martha MacCallum from Rome, Fox News’ Shepard Smith reported on the latest news. “We now know, Bill, that the pope has a pacemaker, and has had a pacemaker for many years,” said Smith.

About three months ago, the pope secretly

left the Vatican in order to have the batteries in his device replaced, Smith added.

According to the pope himself, his advanced age is definitely playing a role in his decision to step down. “About a year ago, according to the Vatican newspaper, about a year ago [Benedict XVI] took this decision, after going on a visit to Mexico and Cuba and was just exhausted afterward,” said Smith, adding that the pope’s brother reportedly knew about his upcoming resignation for about a year.

The Vatican also relayed the news that Pope Benedict XVI will have no say in who succeeds him, and that he will live in a monastery at the back of Vatican City once he officially retires.

What's on

4

P

Nuclear deal deadline! Inside the Iran power struggle. Will world leaders concede as the clock runs out? Get answers and insight on Your World.

7

P

The other Iran deal: An American Marine has been held prisoner for years and used as a bargaining chip. Montel Williams explains how he’s helping fight for the soldier’s life on tonight’s On The Record.

8

P

About 50 looters were arrested during last summer’s riots in Ferguson. Were they punished? Don’t miss a Factor investigation.

9

P

Time’s ticking away in the Iran nuke talks. Will the White House beat the clock, and what will it really cost us and our allies? Find out on The Kelly File, followed by Hannity.

Watch Fox News Anywhere

Now you can watch FOX News Channel and FOX Business Network 24/7 live from your desktop, tablet and smart phone.